Coughing and wheezing at night in kids: What to do?
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Night-time coughing and wheezing can be distressing for children and their parents. These symptoms often suggest hidden respiratory problems that may necessitate care. Identifying the causes, knowing when to seek help, and understanding how to cope with these symptoms can significantly diminish discomfort and foster better sleep for children.
To ascertain whether a child has asthma, a healthcare professional will evaluate the frequency and length of the symptoms, identify potential triggers (such as allergens or physical activity), consider the family history of asthma or allergies, and may perform tests like lung function assessments. If you have concerns about your child's coughing and wheezing, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment options.
Does coughing and wheezing in children mean asthma?
Coughing and wheezing in children may indicate asthma, but these symptoms alone are not conclusive. Asthma is a long-term respiratory issue marked by inflammation and constriction of the airways, resulting in problems with breathing, coughing, wheezing, and a feeling of tightness in the chest. Nevertheless, other factors such as respiratory illnesses like bronchitis or pneumonia can produce similar symptoms.To ascertain whether a child has asthma, a healthcare professional will evaluate the frequency and length of the symptoms, identify potential triggers (such as allergens or physical activity), consider the family history of asthma or allergies, and may perform tests like lung function assessments. If you have concerns about your child's coughing and wheezing, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment options.
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Causes of coughing and wheezing in children
Coughing and wheezing in children can result from various causes, including:Asthma:
A long-lasting condition marked by swollen airways that may result in ongoing coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.Respiratory infections:
Viral illnesses, such as colds, bronchiolitis, or pneumonia, can lead to inflammation and excessive mucus production in the airways, causing coughing and wheezing.Allergies:
Reactions to allergens like pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or mould can provoke coughing and wheezing, frequently alongside other symptoms such as nasal congestion or sneezing. These children may also have asthma.Environmental irritants:
Exposure to smoke (from cigarettes or wood), strong scents, pollution, or chemical substances can irritate the airways and cause respiratory symptoms.Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD):
Acid reflux can irritate the throat and airways, resulting in coughing and wheezing, especially when the person is lying down.Foreign body aspiration:
Inhaling small objects or food can block the airways, leading to sudden coughing, wheezing, or the sensation of choking.Croup:
A viral infection that leads to inflammation of the airways, characterised by a notable "barking" cough and wheezing, is most commonly observed in young children.Chronic bronchitis:
Chronic inflammation of the airways often leads to a constant cough and wheezing, typically caused by prolonged exposure to irritants.Sinusitis:
Inflammation of the sinus cavities can lead to postnasal drip, which may trigger coughing and wheezing.What to do if your child is coughing and wheezing at night? Non-urgent treatments
If your child experiences coughing and wheezing during the night, there are various home remedies and methods you can implement that don't require urgent medical attention to ease their symptoms:
- Establish a cosy sleeping space: Elevate your child's head while they sleep by using additional pillows or a wedge. This can help reduce coughing and make breathing easier.
- Utilise a humidifier: Operating a cool-mist humidifier in your child's room can help add moisture to the air, alleviating irritation in the airways and lessening coughing.
- Promote hydration: Ensure your child drinks plenty of fluids, such as water, herbal tea, or broth. Staying well-hydrated can help thin mucus and soothe the throat.
- Warm compress: Using a warm, damp cloth on the chest can help relax the airways and provide relief from discomfort.
- Honey: For children over the age of one, giving a teaspoon of honey can help ease a cough. Honey has natural soothing properties and can coat the throat effectively.
- Foster calmness: Help your child stay calm and at ease, as anxiety can intensify coughing and wheezing. Gentle breathing exercises or distraction techniques can be helpful in this situation.
- Identify triggers: Recognise and avoid known triggers, like allergens, pet dander, or strong scents, that may exacerbate their symptoms.
- Saline nasal drops: Using saline nasal drops may help in unclogging nasal passages, particularly if congestion is causing coughing.
When to seek a doctor’s appointment?
If symptoms persist, worsen, or are accompanied by a high fever, difficulty breathing, or chest pain, it's important to schedule a doctor's appointment. Additionally, if your child shows signs of dehydration, fatigue, or if coughing disrupts their sleep or daily activities, seeking guidance from a healthcare professional is essential.Telehealth with an online doctor
For less urgent situations, consider using telehealth services with an online doctor for minor symptoms such as a mild cough, or allergies, or for guidance on managing long-term conditions. Telehealth is an excellent option for follow-up appointments, renewing prescriptions, or addressing concerns without requiring an in-person visit. Always prioritise your child's health by monitoring their symptoms and reaching out to a healthcare professional when necessary.Coughing and wheezing during the night can be worrisome for kids and their parents but with the right information and proactive actions, many symptoms can be well managed. By being aware and watchful, parents can help their children breathe freely at night and enjoy deep, uninterrupted sleep.
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Disclaimer
This content is created for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. For emergencies please immediately contact 000.
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Get affordable healthcare on your terms, with quick access to qualified, Australian-registered telehealth doctors & health practitioners, 24/7, 365 days a year. No more searching for ‘doctors near me‘ – Hola connects you instantly.
Address: 79 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000
Email: support@hola.health
For urgent medical help & in case of emergency,
call 000.
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